Pantsula: It is a defiance, a statement to say 'We can outlive poverty'
February 19, 2016 11:35 AM   Subscribe

Pantsula is a form of energetic dancing that originated in black townships of South Africa during the Apartheid era, and it's still alive and thriving over 60 years later, pulling in and spinning out influences to other dance styles from around the world. Pantsula dancers show their moves and tell their history and reason for dancing.

Pantsula isn't just a dance, but a way of life in Johannesburg's townships. (NYT) Photographer Chris Saunders spent 6 years documenting Pantsula dancers and groups, young and old, and stunning as those still images are, you really need to see these dancers in action:

Original Pantsula dancers Inspired by and featuring Pantsula: For more information and a few more videos, Pancocojams has a small collection of information, videos and comments.
posted by filthy light thief (8 comments total) 20 users marked this as a favorite
 
Via Everlasting Blort and madamjujujive
posted by filthy light thief at 11:37 AM on February 19, 2016


You know what they say: "Dantsula off with your pantsula off" or something like that anyway.
posted by komara at 11:39 AM on February 19, 2016 [1 favorite]




Thanks, gehenna_lion! I was looking for earlier examples of the style(s) but failing.
posted by filthy light thief at 11:55 AM on February 19, 2016


I Count Pantsula among the most bitingly interesting dances today.
posted by Mr.Encyclopedia at 12:45 PM on February 19, 2016


*sigh* Guess I'll rename my bloodsucking pants.
posted by univac at 1:00 PM on February 19, 2016 [1 favorite]


filthy light thief, you have made my weekend. Thank you for the shoutout, I do love me some of this pantsula dancing, but we only featured a few links here and there. In your amazing signature style, you have compiled an awesomely deep post with a plethora of riches - this is most delightful, thank you.
posted by madamjujujive at 2:24 PM on February 19, 2016


Wow, this dancing is amazing. It reminds me of a lot of things at once. Thanks filthy light thief.
posted by Ms. Moonlight at 5:37 AM on February 20, 2016


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